First, you will be in an environment that is calm, peaceful and safe. Mediation begins with setting the guidelines established by both the mediator and participants. The guidelines ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity throughout the process.

Second, you will have a process that is fair and equal to all the participants. At each step of the mediation you will have an opportunity to say all that you need to say about the situation from your perspective. You’ll have plenty of time to understand the conflict from the other’s perspective and respond to what they say. Active listening, re-phrasing and thoughtful questions are encouraged in mediation.

Third, the solution of your conflict is in your hands. No outside authority will tell you how to solve your conflict. You will be the co-creator of the solution along with the other participants in the conflict. The mediator supports and encourages activities such as brainstorming to explore options for solutions, but will not make the decision for you.

Fourth, you will gain clarity and understanding about all aspects of the conflict – you’ll explore the causes that put the conflict into motion and why it may have escalated. You’ll understand what the other person thinks and has experienced. We’ve found that as mediation moves through the steps there is almost always more to the situation than what first meets the eye.

Fifth, you will have a skilled and experienced mediator to guide you through the process of resolution to your conflict.Our mediators are trained in a wide range of conflict resolution methods and techniques. We are committed to impartiality during the entire process. We acknowledge the wisdom and experience of each participant involved in the conflict and have confidence in your ability to solve your conflict.

Sixth, you will have a mediator committed to ethical and professional standards. We hold ourselves accountable to implementing the MODEL STANDARDS OF CONDUCTFOR MEDIATORS, approved by the American Arbitration Association, American Bar Association and the Association for Conflict Resolution. Click here to review the Standards.